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Denver Broncos' Russ Hochstein ready, willing and able

Broncos' offensive lineman will take Kuper's spot

By Tom Kensler The Denver Post

Posted:
01/03/2012 12:06:11 AM MST

Updated:
01/03/2012 12:07:24 AM MST

Left tackle is the only position along the offensive line that Russ Hochstein has not played in the NFL, and that includes tight end. But if the Broncos got in a bind at left tackle, the 11th-year veteran from Nebraska would be the first to raise his hand for that, too.

Taking over at right guard for injured Chris Kuper, Hochstein will make his first start of the season Sunday in a playoff game against Pittsburgh at Sports Authority Field at Mile High.

"It's kind of the name of the game at this level; there's only so many players to fill the spots," Hochstein said Monday, referring to just 46 active players for an NFL game. "You have to be versatile. You have to understand different positions and help out when you can.

"That can be a challenge for guys," he added. "I've been doing it a while. I'm not uncomfortable doing that. I learned to do that at an early age, helping out wherever I could. The best thing guys can do is be versatile. It's better for them and for the team."

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